Jota is edging closer to an Celtic exit. Many reliable sources have reported that the Portuguese winger has agreed terms with Al-Ittihad already. And it looks like a £25 million transfer move is very close to getting the green light. It makes sense for all parties involved at some level, and so, it is not hard to understand why everybody might be keen for it to happen.
Celtic look set to pocket a huge transfer fee. But at the same time, they will be losing one of their most important players as well.
Fans will surely want to see the fee reinvested into the squad, as Brendan Rodgers looks to defend the treble and make an impact in the Champions League in his first season back at Parkhead. And if Jota does leave, which is looking very likely, replacing him will need to be near the top of the agenda for the Northern Irish manager.
That will be easier said than done though. Chris Sutton reckons that Celtic are set to lose their most creative player and has even floated the idea of marquee signings.
Sutton sends blunt message about Jota’s Celtic exit
Sutton wrote in his column in the Daily Record:
"Jota’s destination is the most disappointing thing – and there’s no doubt it’s a huge blow to Celtic and to Brendan Rodgers. This is Celtic’s most creative player. He brings something different to the side and he turns up in the big games. He’s been a terrific signing and even if they do get top dollar, he’s going to be extremely difficult to replace.Rodgers would not have returned to the club if he wasn’t given assurances he would be given money to spend and it looks like his kitty is going to be further boosted. Celtic have got money and now it’s going to be interesting to see how much of it filters to the manager and who Rodgers brings in. Does he go with more project players to build up and sell on? Or does he go all out for the marquee signings that are ready made and could fire the side to the next level.I know what fans would prefer."
Jota leaving for Al-Ittihad at 24 years of age will certainly disappoint many. But at the same time, one can see why he might be attracted by the idea of the move. The offer just seems too good to turn down. We have seen the likes of Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kante join the club already.
The idea of marquee signings this summer will certainly excite Celtic fans. There was already talk of Rodgers being handed a £30 million summer budget, when he returned. And that number should be boosted, if the Jota exit takes place. So, do not be surprised if the Hoops shatter their transfer record.